Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite

Wildflowers and Train Whistles: Stories of a Coal Mining Family is a memoir written by Lillian Crone Frazer. Frazer grew up in Minden, West Virginia, a small coal mining camp town, during the 1950s and '60s. She was the youngest of a family with seven kids. Her mom and dad had also both grown up in Minden. Her maternal grandparents were Hungarian immigrants, and her dad’s parents had moved from Virginia. Coal mining provided families with homes and the necessities of life; however, heavy rains brought with them the spectre of flooding, and at one point a landslide wreaked havoc on the town when the towering slate dump outside of town became destabilized by the rain. Frazer shares her experiences as a child playing outdoors with the other kids in her community, and airs the growing concerns all the residents shared as the mine’s coal veins dried up and the miners were laid off. She includes an extensive collection of photographs of her family, the neighboring countryside and the coal camp homes of Minden.

Lillian Frazer’s Wildflowers and Train Whistles: Stories of a Coal Mining Family is a sheer delight to read. Frazer has a genius for telling stories, and I found her accounts of growing up in Minden, West Virginia to be irresistible. This is one of those books that’s impossible to put down until one’s finished the last page. While I was superficially familiar with coal mining and the company store made famous in song, nothing prepared me for these honest and moving accounts of growing up in coal country. I especially loved reading about the outdoors adventures Frazer, her brothers and sisters, and her friends shared as they were growing up, and the Crone family quickly became people I knew and cared about. Frazer’s photographs are superb! They work so well with the text to make Minden, the environs and Frazer’s family come alive. If you choose to read one memoir this year, this is the one I would pick hands down. Wildflowers and Train Whistles: Stories of a Coal Mining Family is most highly recommended.

Reviewed by Amy Raines for Readers' Favorite

Renegade Women in Film & TV, written by Elizabeth Weitzman and illustrated by Austen Claire Clements, shares the history of women in television that paved the way for women today. Possibly one of the most important female roles in studio comedy, discover the life of Alice Guy-Blanche who started her career as a secretary at a camera company to then founding Solax Studios. Guy-Blanche set the pace in screen comedy for the generations of women who didn’t conform to what the expected behavior of a modern woman should be. Don’t forget Helen Gibson who is credited as the first stuntwoman of Hollywood. She did her stunts the hard way while others after her used padding, wires, and cables to help them in their stunts. Mae West, the woman who was loved for being bad, recognized that she was the first liberated woman and wrote it into her scripts. With women in cinema owing the first family sitcom to the ever-comedic Gertrude Berg, it’s no wonder women like Lucille Ball followed in her footsteps.

I loved all the information about the history of women in cinematic television in Renegade Women in Film & TV by Elizabeth Weitzman. I honestly never knew that Alla Nazimova was a trailblazer of female sexuality on and off the big screen. I love that Weitzman put Lois Weber in this book and her history of discussing topics that were illegal in public during her time like abortion and birth control. The illustrations by Austen Claire Clements are absolutely amazing as they portray the amazing women Weitzman is discussing. I recommend this book to anyone with a passion for history, cinema, theater and anyone else who just wants to know who influenced some of the most famous personalities on TV today.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Ain’t I a Diva? Beyoncé and the Power of Pop Culture Pedagogy is a work of non-fiction focused on education and socio-political themes and was penned by author Kevin Allred. From a perspective of utilizing the power of pop culture and modern-day icons to examine a range of critical thoughts on feminism, race and modern life in general, Kevin Allred chooses the undeniable star power and influence of Beyoncé Knowles-Carter for his subject matter. Unpicking her lyrics, successes, failures, and influence against a background of writers from Black feminist thought and modern social and political shifts, we discover the true power of Beyoncé’s influence as a reflection of culture and a creator of culture.

I absolutely loved this book from start to finish for its acknowledgment that celebrity has real power in the world and is not something which academic thinkers should turn away from in distaste. Author Kevin Allred presents the old favorites from Bey’s career in the hindsight of social movements and changes that have occurred alongside them, as well as unpicking more recent lyrical endeavors against themes of empowerment, gender, mental health, and self-care. On top of this comes the pedagogical consideration of how this example of a pop icon can be used for the betterment and greater understanding of teaching and learning, which I also found to be highly compelling and effective. Overall, Ain’t I a Diva? Beyoncé and the Power of Pop Culture Pedagogy is an important work for educators looking at the social world and comes highly recommended.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Light Love Rituals: Bulgarian Myths, Legends, and Folklore by Ronesa Aveela is a wonderful book that gives readers a peek into the rich culture, customs, traditions, myths, legends and folklore of Bulgaria. The book speaks about the traditions that are part of the soul's journey and the topics discussed reflect the relationship of nature to mankind. The rituals described are a collection of ceremonies practiced throughout the country and the author also intersperses these with fun facts and legends, making it an informational and engaging read. The book is educational, fun and entertaining, and it reveals the fascinating history and culture of the Bulgarian people in an enjoyable way.

The recipes shared at the end are mouth-watering and readers will be tempted to try them out. The illustrations are bright and colorful and complement the author's thoughts and ideas beautifully. The author takes readers through the sections methodically and every ritual has a story which makes it easier for readers to understand. The 'Did You Know' bits shared with readers in every chapter throw light on the beliefs and superstitions that exist in this country.

I learned a lot about Bulgaria, its culture, customs, rituals and traditions through the book. It's obvious that the author has done a lot of research on the topic. The seasonal rituals with the questions at the end of each chapter does help readers connect better with the Bulgarian rituals, practices, and traditions that existed. I loved the book. The author does a great job in telling readers about the culture, customs, and traditions of Bulgaria.

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

What's Next? Creativity in the Age of Entertainment is a compelling memoir that takes a deep, critical look at creativity, one of the greatest traits that have driven success across multiple disciplines — education, entertainment, innovation, philanthropy, and many others. In this book, career musician, educator, and cultural entrepreneur, Grammy® Award-winner Jan Karlin shares powerful observations and wisdom developed over a long period of her career, working with great artists, educators, and movers in different areas of entertainment. This book establishes the intersection between inspiration and creativity and helps readers understand how the creative process works. Apart from defining creativity, the author demonstrates how it can be nurtured and uncovers factors that can contribute to an effective integration of creative development in business, arts, education, and other areas.

Jan Karlin is a visionary who shows a great ability to interpret the cultural conundrum and offer a path towards a new Age of Creativity. Her writing itself showcases her creative spirit and she has the gift of grabbing the reader’s attention with her captivating prose, her powerful examples, and the inspiring stories that are spread throughout the book. Here is a book that will help readers understand how to tap into their creative genius and steer their lives towards the outcome they desire. What's Next? Creativity in the Age of Entertainment is a revolutionary book laced with wisdom and powerful insights, one of the best books I have read on creativity and one that is most relevant to our time. The author’s confident voice and insightful utterances will inspire any reader.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

Time for the World to Learn From Africa: Hearing Others’ Voices is a work of educational non-fiction intended for students and young people, penned by author and academic Ruth Finnegan. Taking a break from her scholarly work, Finnegan delves deep into the heritage, culture, art and beliefs of Africa to uncover and convey that which we, as Westernized society, could learn from opening our eyes and ears to another culture. In a reversal of the idea that the cultures of the east need to look west for improvement, it is now time that we look back over the language, lore, gender roles and insights of African culture in order to develop ourselves as more rounded people.

I adored this book for its empowering presence, but also for the creative and educational possibilities it suggests. As an educator and creative practitioner myself, I really enjoyed the explanations of elements such as performance and music, how they are integral to the African culture and are valued in a different way than we see entertainment formats in the West. Linguistically, Ruth Finnegan’s sensitivity to the many languages and dialects of Africa is well explained and would be easily understood by her target age range of students aged sixteen and above. I think that opening others up to culture in such an academic and accessible way is of huge benefit to the target group, but Time for the World to Learn from Africa would also make an excellent addition to the shelves of all teachers who want to bring new perspectives into their classrooms.

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

A Study of Household Spirits of Eastern Europe by Ronesa Aveela is the first book in the Spirits and Creatures series. Taken from tales originating as Christian and pagan, Aveela compiles a collection of nine influential spirits: Kikimora, Domovoi, Stopan, Talasum, Smok, Bannik, Ovinnik, Dvorovoi, and Hovanets. Each spirit comes with an exciting story and a rich history to explore with reasons why people have been drawn to them over the years and what their tales have inspired, which in some cases have been music and even ballet. From Kikimora and her role foretelling disaster to the darker side of a Bannik, this is the perfect resource to explore history and belief. Also included is an assortment of illustrations from a variety of artists.

Ronesa Aveela is thorough in the research and portrayal of each spirit to where understanding them is so in-depth they feel like real characters. The structure is incredibly well organized with each chapter depicting a different household spirit and boxes highlighting different tidbits. Included is anything from etymology to music to tales inspired by the spirit. As with most creatures of myth and folktales, each of these has multiple facets which Aveela clearly lays out for a complete understanding of how they're viewed. The amount of research and thoroughness put into each section shows Aveela's passion for the topic. Aveela not only goes into the history but how they functioned in society and how they inspire even today with several examples noted from throughout history. It's fun to engage in what these spirits have inspired, with a few favorites being everything the Kikimora and Domovoi have inspired people to create; from animated film to a ballet by Leonide Massine telling the story of Kikimora and her cat to interactive fiction featuring the Domovoi.

The illustrations are stunning with each artist offering a different interruption and perspective while perfectly capturing the essence of the role each spirit has played. The images are lovely with some providing just the right amount of eeriness, much like some of the spirits themselves. A Study of Household Spirits of Eastern Europe is an extensive account of nine spirits with stunning illustrations, thorough research, and fascinating facts, making it the perfect resource for those who enjoy and want to learn about spirits from folklore.

Reviewed by Maria Beltran for Readers' Favorite

The main protagonist of Rhythm for Sale, Leonard Harper, is a talented African-American born in an era of discrimination and of a blossoming entertainment industry to which he was drawn. He was the son of a poor singer from Birmingham, Alabama. He learned the art of soft shoe dancing, a type of tap dancing popular during those years. In almost no time, he had become a master of his craft, going on his own at the age of 16 in New York, even working with greats such as Louis Armstrong. Despite white people ripping him and other African-American counterparts of their work and earnings, he was able to do many performances and shows and, through his hard work, was also able to stage the much-lauded African-American Broadway show Hot Chocolates in 1929. Rhythm For Sale, written by his grandson, Grant Harper Reid is his story.

Grant Harper Reid’s debut book is a fascinating look at the dazzling Harlem Renaissance that was the backdrop to the life of his grandfather, Leonard Harper, a known figure among history buffs and dance and theater enthusiasts. Leonard Harper was not only a gifted performer, he also contributed much to the Harlem Renaissance as a choreographer and stage director so that even to this day others look up to him and his works. Those wanting to learn more of this wonderful era of dance and theater history will realize they have a marvelous find in Rhythm for Sale. The author's writing style is highly descriptive and entertaining and his book not only tells of his grandfather's exploits as a performer – we also get to see his personal life, rife with affairs as well as exciting characters from gangsters to burlesque dancers in the nightclubs. This is a book every performer should read.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

Hundred Miles to Nowhere: An Unlikely Love Story by Elisa Korenne is the author’s personal story and it is the typical romantic interlude when a city girl meets a country boy and they fall in love. The story begins with Elisa moving to New York Mills, Minnesota after taking up a job as singer/song writer. It is here she meets the love of her life and soul mate, Chris Klein, a homegrown insurance agent. Love blossoms and Elisa is able to carry on with a long distance relationship after she moves back to her place in New York. The couple’s five-year journey is a revelation of how their different worlds collide and eventually readers get to see Elisa moving back to Minnesota, the place she finally calls home.

This beautiful love story throws light on how the couple tries to navigate their differences, and Elisa’s transformation from that of a city-bred girl to that of someone who begins to enjoy the solitude and beauty of the countryside. The many tender moments between Chris and Elisa are real and relatable and the author makes these palpable to readers with her detailed descriptions. What makes the book unique and refreshing is that the author is telling her own love story, her culture shock, and life experiences, which make it personal, intimate, and soul-searching to readers.

The idea of having a reader’s guide at the end of the book is a good one because it will help readers reflect on the story once they finish reading the book. I like the author’s style of writing. There is wit, humor, yet at the same time the author speaks about life, and their love which is heartwarming. The culture shock, adjusting to new surroundings, love, transformation, and how their love evolves make this a captivating love story that will leave an indelible mark on the minds of readers.

Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite

Ten Cultures, Twenty Lives: Refugee Life Stories by Daina Jurika-Owen is a powerful book that explores a socio-political phenomenon — the refugee problem. In this spellbinding, eye-opening book, the author shares the lives of refugees who, after numerous tribulations and gruesome experiences, arrive in the US and settle in Abilene, Texas. They come from different cultures and backgrounds, men and women, driven away from their homeland by war. They come from Cuba, Rwanda, Liberia, Bhutan, Congo, and other places. They are people leaving behind a whole culture and way of life to search for a place of refuge, but there is more to these stories than that. These are stories that open a whole new world to readers, allowing them to touch the very soul of the refugee and feel the conundrum from a whole new perspective.

Daina Jurika-Owen does a wonderful job in bringing these stories — both heartbreaking and inspiring — to readers. This is a book about courage, about the dreams of millions of people fleeing their countries, but it is also a book about the long road to freedom these people have had to travel. The book answers the question: What does it feel like to be a refugee? Readers are introduced to compelling characters and powerful stories that will bring tears to their eyes and inspire a deep sense of pathos in them. It is a compelling indictment of war and violence and man’s inhumanity to man. I couldn’t help thinking about a powerful video documentary as I turned from one page to the next, encountering the characters and their tenacity and grit as I read through Ten Cultures, Twenty Lives: Refugee Life Stories.